City Guide

Dallas, TX

Home to one of America's best gayborhoods and a creative, entrepreneurial spirit, Dallas is one of the growing hotspots for cool and unusual things to do. But Dallas encapsulates that southern charm and local Texas flair while promoting a modern and forward-thinking culture. There's history in Dallas, of course. It's home to Dealey Plaza where John F. Kennedy was assassinated, but beyond that, it's a city that's grown into one of the best cultural hubs in the south.

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Dallas, Texas has a reputation for being BIG. It’s a sprawling city part of the mega Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex (one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States south). But Dallas encapsulates that southern charm and local Texas flair while promoting a modern and forward-thinking culture. There’s history in Dallas, of course. It’s home to Dealey Plaza where John F. Kennedy was assassinated, but beyond that, it’s a city that’s grown into one of the best cultural hubs in the south.

I grew up in Dallas and so, naturally, I’ve always had a complicated relationship with the city. But, over the past two decades, I’ve also watched Dallas grow up to become one of the most interesting, dynamic and surprisingly hip cities in not just Texas, but the USA. The city’s Arts District has always been a cultural hub of the city, but newer art and design-focused neighborhoods have popped up, including the Bishop Arts District of Oak Cliff and the Design District in the city center. There’s a creative and entrepreneurial spirit that flows through Dallas.

And as a growing metropolis home to international businesses and corporations, the city also has a unique and diverse worldview. That Texas spirit you’ll find throughout the state, one of pride and honor, meshes well with the Dallas spirit for success and expansion—making this a friendly and culturally important city. Dallas is also home to one of the largest LGBT neighborhoods in the country with a diverse scene for gays and lesbians who enjoy the year-round sunshine and friendly, local atmosphere.

Dallas isn’t just big. It’s a community of diverse people working to achieve more and more for their city. Explore more of Dallas in my guide here of some of the best and most interesting Dallas hotspots.

WHERE TO STAY

Not only is Dallas one of the largest cities in the United States, it’s a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history so it’s no surprise that it receives numerous visitors each year. If you’re headed to Dallas there are a range of options to choose from to suit your budget.

HOTELS – Budget & Mid-range

There’s so much to see and do in Dallas so if you’d prefer to spend your hard earned cash on live music, football games, shopping till you drop and dining out (and I don’t blame you) you can easily find a basic but comfortable and centrally-located budget hotel or hostel. If you’re looking for a little more comfort but don’t want to break the bank there are also a number of chic yet affordable options around the downtown Dallas’ Arts District and business district.

Hotel Indigo — The Hotel Indigo located in the heart of the Main Street district is set in a historic red-brick building which once served as is the Dallas Opera House and the Titche-Goettinger department store. The three-star hotel boasts contemporary rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and theatre-and-fashion-themed artworks which allude to the hotel’s past. There’s also a fitness center and a bar and bistro which serves breakfast and dinner. Rates from $100 per night.

HOTELS – Luxury

And if you really want to splash out, you’ve come to the right place! Many an oil baron has called Dallas home, and the city also had the fastest-growing population of new millionaires in 2013, so if you’re in the mood to splurge and want to make your trip as memorable as possible there are luxury accommodations aplenty to choose from. Find privacy in the hidden oasis that is the opulent Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek or see and be seen at the stunning Neo-Gothic Joule Hotel in Dallas’ central business district. Wherever you choose to lay your head, you’ll be sure to encounter a good dose of Texan hospitality.

Hilton Anatole Resort — This luxury hotel is great for both business and leisure, and its building is massive, because it also happens to host an art collection. The Verandah Club is one of the main attractions of the Hilton Anatole, an award-winning wellness and fitness center with pools, sauna and even men’s facial treatment. The Hilton Anatole complex integrates several restaurants with cuisine from all over the world, to-go sushi sets (Counter Offer, open 24 hours) and Texan steaks (Sēr Steak + Spirits). Rates from $180 per night.

Joule Hotel — Built in 1927, Joule Hotel is located in Dallas’ central business district and adjacent to the Dallas Arts District and the flagship Neiman Marcus store. The Neo-Gothic luxury hotel has 161 lavish rooms and four penthouses, as well as a variety of dining options offering award-winning artisanal food, craft cocktails and beers and an eclectic selection of wines. Visitors can do some shopping in the hotel’s upscale boutiques, take a dip in its cantilevered rooftop pool or relax in its 8,000-square-foot, subterranean spa which also has a pool as well as a yoga and fitness studio. Rates from $280 per night.

The Fairmont Dallas — Located in the heart of downtown Dallas’ Arts District, The Fairmont is a luxury hotel with 545 newly redesigned guest rooms and suites. The contemporary rooms offer high-end linens, flat-screen HDTVs, minibars and sweeping views over the city. The hotel’s rooftop features a Junior Olympic sized pool as well as the Pyramid Restaurant & Bar which serves Modern American cuisine. Guests also have access to a Starbucks, a fitness center and massage treatments. Rates from $140 per night.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek — Originally the private residence of a wealthy cotton baron, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is a luxury hotel is tucked away in an exclusive oasis in the center of Dallas. Its 143 rooms and suites have balconies or patios and 42-inch flat-screen TVs. In addition to an outdoor pool and hot tub, an exercise room, a steam room and a sauna, the hotel boasts a stylish bar and an upscale restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine with a subtle global influence. Rates from $320 per night.

CAFÉS & COFFEE

The coffee scene in Dallas has grown up a lot over the past few years. The third wave coffee scene has come hard and fast to Dallas, with new shops, roasters and cafés opening every season. Each coffee spot has their own unique style and design with an increasing emphasis on quality beans and other artisanal products. You’ll find the best Dallas coffee shops spread throughout the city, oftentimes in hotel lobbies or in stand-alone, independent buildings.

Besides coffee, Dallas has a pretty strong sweet tooth. In the land of sweet tea, sugar is a staple of any Texas meal. Bakeries have always been popular in North Texas, but as the trend toward more high-quality and diverse foods has spread across the region, specialty desert stores have begun to open up.

Mudsmith — From the outside, you might not think much about it, but Mudsmith is one of Dallas’ best coffee shops. It’s a great spot for meetings or co-working and a friendly hangout. They serve small bites like cheese melts and they even have tea on tap. During the day you’ll find a lot of people working from their wooden tables, and at night it’s more like a bar with people spilling out onto the street.

Oddfellows — At the heart of the Bishop Arts District, Oddfellows is a spacious café and diner with one of the best patios in the area. They serve typical American cuisine from deviled eggs to mimosas at brunch. Be warned, though: this place fills up fast because it’s *the* place to be on weekends. Expect a wait outside for Sunday brunch.

The Wild Detectives — Located in the hipster part of Oak Cliff, this café and bookstore is not only cozy but interesting. You can find countercultural books in the shelves, enjoy an expresso or chill under the sun in their backyard. The café also offers small snacks – including delicious toasts – and it’s the perfect place to work during the cold winter days. Outlets, good music and friendly staff make The Wild Detectives the best coffee shop in the neighborhood. The café hosts some events – mostly literary – and you can check the program online.

Weekend Coffee — Creatively integrated with the lobby of the Joule Hotel, the Weekend Coffee is a must in downtown Dallas. With its great atmosphere of big, colorful designer chairs and sofas, the best of Weekend is the craft coffee. For foodies, the coffee offers not only great cakes and macaroon, but also a small shop with items only dreamed by coffee lovers.

Emporium Pies — If a sweet, colorful pie is a piece of art, Emporium Pies in Deep Ellum has mastered it. This café reminds me of the times of endless conversations with friends, and you can usually see people engaged in interesting chats. The pies include all flavors one can imagine: orange, pistachio, cinnamon, pecan, of course, chocolate. All pies are handmade and you can visit the shop all year, because the menu changes with the seasons.

Ascension Coffee — A sleek coffee house that’s popular for brunch (try their healthy food options), they put as much care into the design aesthetic of their cafés (there are four in Dallas) as they do in selecting their coffee beans. Fine wines and bar snacks are popular later in the day as it’s a good spot for a meeting or pre-evening drink.

Houndstooth Coffee — It’s about as hipster as you can get in Dallas—and it makes sense, too, because Houndstooth Coffee was imported from Austin. The small café has won numerous awards for their roasts and sits at the heart of the up-and-coming Knox-Henderson area. Houndstooth makes for a great date location because of its cozy but stylish aesthetic, and there’s craft beer and wine available, too.

Crooked Tree Coffee House — This coffee house is literally a house located in historic State-Thomas district of Uptown Dallas. Big, ample tables and sofas and huge windows make this coffeehouse the perfect co-working space. Indeed, when you visit, you will find lots of students and young people hanging around. The coffee is of great quality and the prices are generous, which makes it crowded during the rush hours.

Steel City Pops — Part of a gourmet chain of popsicle shops you’ll find across the south (in Alabama, Texas and Kentucky), Steel City is a fun and quick stop for something sweet. You can choose from creamy popsicles or fruity ones with flavors like avocado or pineapple jalapeño. Each popsicle is made of all-natural and local products (hence the Tex-Mex flair with the local flavors) and they’re vegan, too!

FOOD & RESTAURANTS

The Dallas dining scene has always been well established. A city with a lot of money makes for a wide variety of restaurant options, but as that wealth has spread to further districts from downtown Dallas, so has the diversity of options. As developers add new life to new areas, thanks to better transport connections and more space, restaurants and bars are often the first to open up in new areas.

In 2013, shortly after the iconic Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge opened up connecting West Dallas and Oak Cliff with the city center, the Trinity Groves district went under development. Today it’s one of the secret foodie hotspots of the city home to new restaurants and retail shops where they can test and perfect their menus and recipes. And when you’re looking for inspiration, look for the hundreds of Dallas foodie Instagram accounts.

Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ — In the Bishop Arts District (and a second location in nearby Plano), Lockhart Smokehouse is generally regarded as one of the best in Dallas. The location, like all true Texas BBQ joints, is casual—long tables inside, order at the bar

Street’s Fine Chicken — Owned by the same founders of legendary local Texas dining chain Black Eyed Peas, Street’s Fine Chicken serves home-style cuisine in a chic and trendy restaurant. From fried okra to deviled eggs, sides and appetizers are great for sharing, but the real star is the assorted meat (mostly chicken, obviously). The restaurant is as good for a casual business lunch as it is for a romantic date or a group outing before hitting up the gay bars further down the road.

Zåtar Lebanese Tapas & Bar — With a professional and friendly staff that will actually do anything you need – like carrying a huge heater in the middle of the winter months, the Zåtar restaurant is a romantic, gay-friendly venue in Deep Ellum. Zåtar, a famous spice from the middle east (and one of my favorites!), is more than simply a name because the first thing they offer you is an entrée with this delicious seasoning. The menu is varied and includes both vegetarian and meat-based dishes. The bar is in the middle of the restaurant and specializes on cocktails with a Lebanese twist.

Shake Shack — Although it’s a chain in many U.S. cities, this Shake Shack location has become a favorite for locals, offering great burgers and local beer. The first and only Shack is located in The Crescent, an 11-acre business and retail complex in Uptown Dallas. To those who love American fast-food, the Shake Shack is perfect to enjoy hot dogs, shakes and cheese fries (add bacon, if you’re not on a diet). And bonus! The Dallas Shake Shack is one of only a handful that serve a special breakfast menu.

AllGood Café — A local institution in Deep Ellum, this corner café and bar has one of the best Dallas brunches (and my personal favorite chicken fried steak). While the café gets lively in evenings with live music performers, it’s good all-day long.

Wabi House — A chic ramen restaurant in the North Henderson area, Wabi House is an intimate and friendly spot for a romantic dinner or a social gathering of friends. Their menu includes ramen classics but you’ll also find innovative dishes like brussels sprouts served with beets. The tsukemen entree with its pork belly dipping broth is especially delicious.

Pyramid Restaurant & Bar — Located in the ground floor of the iconic Dallas Fairmont hotel (steps away from the Dallas Museum of Art), the Pyramid Restaurant’s atmosphere is reminiscent of that old-time Dallas charm but with an innovative and exciting menu. Food is sourced locally—so local that it comes from the hotel’s rooftop vegetable garden. You’ll find dining staples like salmon and steak, but also more creative dishes like a watermelon gazpacho or edamame hummus.

Truck Yard — It’s more than just a beer garden with food trucks, the Truck Yard is a small, casual and fun hangout: a playground for adults. It’s quite literally a yard, so it’s best on days with good weather when you can chill in the backyard with a cold drink and nibble on some shared bites from some of the vendors.

Spiral Diner — The local chain specializes in vegan and vegetarian food; their brunch is one of the busiest on weekends. The décor inside is nothing special, but the food is top-notch (bio, organic, healthy and well-seasoned) and the diner has been a longstanding part of the Dallas-Fort Worth vegan community for decades.

COOL BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Dallas nightlife is as varied as the city’s districts. Deep Ellum has been the center of the Dallas live music scene for decades, with countless music venues, alternative bars and cheap, late-night dining. A lot of the gay nightlife is in the city’s gayborhood, centered on Cedar Springs Road in Oak Lawn. And along McKinney Ave in Uptown Dallas, you’ll find a lot of sports bars and brewpubs with happy hour specials.

But don’t ignore the bars and nightlife elsewhere in the city, too. Bishop Arts District, while especially great during the day, increasingly has more late-night venues and events. And other top-quality cocktail bars are scattered across the city in their own special venues.

Katy Trail Ice House — The best way to access the Katy Trail Ice House is, predictably, along the Katy Trail—one of the best nature spots in the Dallas city center. It’s a large beer garden with fire pits and hundreds of outdoor tables making it an especially great place for large groups and meeting friends. The bar serves your typical bar foods (burgers and nachos)

The Bomb Factory — One of the biggest and newest live music venues in Dallas, they’re located right in the heart of Deep Ellum. Concerts and events here are generally pretty eclectic, so check their calendar on their website for shows in advance.

High & Tight Barbershop — Literally a barber shop with a cool bar integrated into it where you can enjoy craft beer and cocktails, listen to music – both live performances or ambient music – and with luck enjoy some classic movie projected silently as part of the atmosphere. It’s a popular venue, especially during the weekends, and well… you can also visit during the day hours and get a trendy haircut, trim your beard and change your look.

Off the Record Craft Beer & Vinyl — Small and crowded, but with one of the best selections of craft beers in Deep Ellum, Off the Record features a great vibe. You can talk to friends, what some videos projected in the TVs, and shop or just explore the collection of vinyl for sale. From Smashing Pumpkins to the indie bands, you never know what musical treasure is waiting for you in the wooden shelves.

The Nines – A small bar and club in Deep Ellum, The Nines recently renovated and has a rooftop patio overlooking Deep Ellum. Multiple dance floors, small bites and big, plush lounges, it’s got a cool-but-kind-of-sleazy vibe. Burlesque shows and other special events (including rooftop karaoke) add to the fun and funky atmosphere.

The Curtain Club — One of my favorite live music venues in Deep Ellum, the Curtain Club puts on a variety of shows—mostly from startup bands and local indie performers. Two floors and a casual lounge make it a fun way to start a night out in Dallas if you’re looking to try out some of the live music first.

McKinney Ave — This stretch of road in Uptown Dallas is home to a handful of pubs and sports bars—each with big patios, regular drink specials and all the basic requirements of a bar for the Dallas bros. It’s a good place to get a taste of that famous “Dallitude” (Dallas attitude), but with the right group of friends, a night out on McKinney can be a lot of fun.

The Cedars Social — Recently under new management but still serving some of Dallas’ favorite handcrafted cocktails, The Cedars Social is a great spot for craft drinks in a cozy, 1970s’-inspired environment. Meals here can be really good, too with a menu featuring a lot of heavy comfort foods.

Braindead Brewing — A local craft brewery in Deep Ellum, they’ve got one of the best outdoor patios. During the day, it catches a lot of sunlight and at night, it’s a casual and social atmosphere—not too loud or rowdy. Their local brews are some of the best in Dallas and they’ve got a tasty menu of better-than-normal pub food.

LGBTQ – Gay Dallas

You might not expect Dallas to be one of the best gay cities in America, but you’d be wrong. The Dallas gayborhood of Oak Lawn and specifically a stretch of Cedar Springs Road, is one of the most established gay neighborhoods in the USA. A handful of gay bars and shops, and two gay saunas make the area a mostly safe and friendly environment.

Over the past two decades, the LGBT scene in Dallas has grown and expanded, and now you’ll find gay and queer bars outside of the main gayborhood. Deep Ellum has always been an edgy, alternative spot for punks and queers, while the Bishop Arts District and its revival of artisan foods, drinks and crafts has made it a hotspot of queer culture in Dallas.

For listings of gay events going on in Dallas and elsewhere in North Texas, check the GayDFW.com website.

LGBT Shops, Culture, and Activities

CinéWilde at the Texas Theatre — The Texas Theatre is famous for being the spot where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested. A small plaque identifies the seat he was found in. But today, the iconic theater hosts regular events and screenings, including a monthly queer film night called CinéWilde. There’s a pre- and/or post-film discussion and occasional guest speakers. Check the CinéWilde Facebook page for upcoming screenings and dates.

Out of the Closet – Part of the national chain of LGBT thrift/charity shops, Out of the Closet is right at the heart of the Dallas gayborhood on Cedar Springs Road. You’ll find community flyers, leaflets and pamphlets here for free, as well as free HIV testing every Wednesday.

Marek+Richard — Though there isn’t a physical shop for the Marek+Richard brand, it’s a fun fashion brand out of Dallas. Their online shop has bright, colorful and racy designs for everything from men’s crop tops to underwear, swimwear and sunglasses.

Gay Bars & Clubs

Station 4 — The biggest gay club of Dallas, Station 4 (or S4 as it’s referred to by the locals), is the typical place to end a long night out in the Dallas gayborhood. You’ll end up here eventually. Earlier in the night, on weekends, you’ll find drag shows (often crowded with bachelorette parties), but the real fun takes place on the dance floor and the backyard patio. The crowd is generally pretty young. It’s a multi-level club, and a bit of a maze, but you’ll always find what you’re looking for (or not) here. The biggest Dallas gay parties and events are almost always here, from RuPaul’s Drag Race events to annual fundraisers.

Round-Up Saloon — One of the best gay places in Dallas, or maybe all of Texas, the Round-Up Saloon has a global reputation. It’s a gay cowboy bar and club where you’ll find line-dancing and other southwestern dances taking place at special events or earlier in the evenings on weekends. After midnight, usually, the club music switches to pop, but it’s fun no matter when you visit.

JR’s Bar and Grill – JR’s in Dallas is a two-floor venue with large bars, lounges and a good place to start the night with cheap drinks and a fun, social atmosphere. The club has expanded over the past few decades to be one of the best gay spots in Oak Lawn. An outdoor patio on the second floor provides one of the best spots on Cedar Springs for checking out all the action happening on the street below.

Woody’s — It’s your typical neighborhood pub with high-top tables and either sports of pop music videos on the TVs above the bar. Show tune singalongs every Tuesday and other fun, quirky events make it a fun place to meet others.

Barbara’s Pavilion — Across from the Texas Theatre in Bishop Arts, Barbara’s Pavilion (or The Pavilion Lounge) is one of West Dallas’ best (and possibly only) LGBT bars. It’s one of the least judgmental gay bars in Dallas and the local drag queens make it a friendly, social environment for everyone.

ART, MUSEUMS, & ACTIVITIES

Dallas is a city committed to culture, history and art, and the city museums reflect this in its diverse museums and galleries. Given the role of Dallas in contemporary U.S. history, the city is a major destination for those who love politics (including those who like conspiracy theories).

But beyond JFK and his tragic relationship with Dallas, the city hosts an Arts District with no comparison. The Art District includes all the variety of art manifestations, including classic and modern museums, sculpture gardens and even Asian themed collections. The district also includes the Meyerson Symphony Center, the Dallas Opera house and several theater venues. A short walk will take you to the Klyde Warren Park, where locals meet to have a snack, read the free books and take park in the performances that occur frequently in an open stage.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Square — Focusing on the life, assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy, the Sixth Floor Museum is situated in the former Texas School Book Depository, overlooking at Dealey Square and the famous intersection of Elm and Houston street. This is the place from where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly (according to many government investigations and reports) shot and killed President Kennedy in 1963. The museum is one of the main attractions of Dallas and if all the information and history in the museum is not enough to satisfy your curiosity, a collection of political and biographical books, as well as documentaries, are available in the museum store.

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza — Designed by renowned American architect Philip Johnson, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is five minutes away from the Sixth Floor Museum. The monument consists of 72 white concrete columns, creating an “empty tomb” (a cenotaph) that resembles the freedom that characterized JFK in both his life and his political ideals. The memorial was erected in 1970 and was funded by the city of Dallas. It’s an eerie place of calm in the city center, surrounded by history.

Dallas Farmer’s Market — From high-quality olive oil, to trendy T-Shirts and Caribbean meals, the Dallas Farmer’s Market is open every day of the week and includes a variety of restaurants and alternative shops. It has everything that locals and visitors need, including various small cafés and a bakery, and an amazing view of Dallas skyline. Artisanal products, local specialty foods and fine cheese make the market a must for food lovers and creative souls. On weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) regional farmers bring in produce and you’ll find additional specialty stands in The Shed next door to the Farmer’s Market, selling everything from vegan snacks to pickles brined in local craft beers.

Nasher Sculpture Center — The museum and sculpture garden features modern and contemporary artworks by Jean Arp, Joseph Beuys, Antony Gormley, Alexander Calder and Alberto Giacometti to name just a few. The collection has been around for a while but the museum has only been open since 2003. The sculpture garden in the back is the clear highlight, as well as the temporary exhibitions which regularly feature topical and political subjects. There’s also a popular cafe and restaurant on the terrace overlooking the garden—food with a view!

Dallas Museum of Art — With a permanent collection that includes art from Papua Guinea and Mondrian or Pollock, the museum is open for free (with the exception of selected temporary exhibitions and night shows) from Tuesday to Sunday, offering more than 24000 works of art. The collection is huge and you need about four or five hours to see all the different sections at a normal pace. A cafeteria, workshops for children and a cool souvenir store are part of the attraction of the DMA.

Klyde Warren Park — This tiny park is a wonderful place for strolling, reading, exercising and having fun with your family. The park has a playground and a couple of restaurants, an open stage, ping-pong tables, and free WiFi. If you happen to be a dog lover, the park also includes an area for their enjoyment. More than a meeting point, the Klyde Warren Park is a great place to hang out between museums or before an artistic performance, given its proximity to the Dallas Art District. The best of the park: The food trucks.

Crow Collection of Asian Art — More than a collection, this is a cultural center. The museums frequently shows Asian art in all its diversity, focusing on the artistic works of China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. The entrance is free of charge and this include some of the wellness activities (with a focus on the needs of special populations like the veterans and the elderly).

Dallas Contemporary — Located on Glass Street, the Dallas Contemporary is always searching for new national and international art to show in its building. As part of their commitment to education, the Dallas Contemporary frequently hosts lectures, seminars and other activities, and their exhibitions focus on varied manifestations of contemporary art such as video-art, photography, drawings, painting and installations.

Theatre Three — As if it were the plot of a play, the Theatre Three was founded by Norma Young thanks to an $3000 inheritance that she received from a great-aunt that she never knew. Today, located in Uptown Dallas, the theater produces contemporary and classic plays that reflect on the understanding of the human condition. Adapted classic works like Stevenson’s “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” and new, independent plays are part of the tragedies and comedies performed each season.

Granada Theater — Located on Greenville Avenue, the Granada theater used to be a post-war WWII movie theater now turned into a perfectly acoustic concert hall. Considered one of the best ten places to see live music in 2016, the Granada theater shows include indie bands, soft pop and of course, country music. Many events are free of charge and during the summer months you can enjoy classic films and half-price whiskey on the rooftop.

Meadows Museum — Through excellent exhibitions, performances, workshops and lectures, the Meadows Museum is a place for both national and international art, but with a focus on Spanish art. This is because the founder, Algur H. Meadows. Mr. Meadows, became an art lover during his trip to Spain in the 1950s. From Goya to Salvador Dalí, the permanent collection is composed of paintings, drawings, and sketches. The Elizabeth Meadows Sculpture Garden, located in the outdoor plaza, is a collection of modern sculpture by non-Spanish artists (often including works by Rodin and Giacometti).

Dallas Symphony Orchestra — Arhictecturally, the Myerson Symphony Center is a masterpiece by architect I.M. Pei, and it has become the house of a 4535 pipe organ. Its program includes high-definition screenings of the Hollywood musical La La Land (accompanied by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra) and classic masterpieces such as the Mahler 5. The Myerson Symphony Center also has a special family-oriented program.

FASHION & SHOPPING

No trip to Dallas would be complete without indulging in a little bit of shopping. If you’re a clotheshorse you can’t afford to miss a trip to the Neiman Marcus Flagship Store which has been around since 1914 and offers an impressive selection of high-end brands, or the the Northpark Mall which contains 235 stores! Head to Highland Park Village for designer brands like Chanel and Christian Louboutin.

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces there are countless alternative boutiques and hipster shops, and some great thrift stores, as well as outlets which sell organic, ethically-sourced clothing. Maybe you’re in the market for some quirky art, homeware or stationery? The We Are 1976 boutique’s got you covered.

And foodies fear not, the city is home to a growing number of outlets selling craft beers, artisanal chocolates, organic cheeses and eclectic wines, as well as Mexican grocery stores selling the best salsas and hot sauces you’ll find north of the border. There’s no shortage of retail adventures in Dallas!

Epiphany for Men — Epiphany for Men is a bright, modern boutique located at 413 N Bishop Avenue, just across the street from its sister store, Epiphany Boutique (a women’s clothing shop). The men’s boutique offers a casual, cool collection of wardrobe essentials such as jeans, vintage sports tees, hats and accessories.

Bullzerk — A one-of-a-kind, quirky gift shop, Bullzerk specializes in local t-shirt designs and other apparel and accessories. With funny designs and clever wordplay, they’ve created an iconic brand of inside jokes and a whole lot of local love and Dallas pride.

Dude, Sweet Chocolate — With two locations on Greenville Avenue and West 8th Street it’s safe to say that chocolatier Dude, Sweet has lots of fans. In fact its artisanal chocolates and treats have even garnered national attention and are sold at Whole Foods stores as well as corner shops, wineries and distilleries across the country. So what’s all the fuss about? Owner and chef Katherine Clapner creates an assortment of inventive chocolate-inspired treats which range from traditional truffles, toffees and chocolates to concoctions like blue cheese and sea salt fudge and porcini and pumpkin seed toffee.

Kate Weiser Chocolate — After having worked as Executive Pastry Chef at Nobu Kate Weiser decided to focus her skills and energy on the thing she was most passionate about: chocolate. She went on to spend four years perfecting her craft before opening her own chocolate company on Gulden Lane in 2014, and that year Dessert Professional Magazine named her one of the Top 10 Chocolatiers in North America. Kate’s sweet shop sells handcrafted and hand-painted chocolates, caramels and other candies, plus homemade ice cream.

We Are 1976 — The We Are 1976 boutique (313 N. Bishop Avenue) sells affordable, design-oriented prints, stationery, jewelry, books, homewares, apparel and books created by both local and international artisans. The family-run business which was established in 2009 started out as an independent design gift shop and gallery but now includes a graphic design and letterpress studio which provides bespoke design and print work. The space also hosts a variety of letterpress printmaking workshops.

Bonobos — The brick-and-mortar branch of the online menswear retailer on N. Henderson Avenue lets customers see, touch and try on its range of clothes and its friendly, fashionable staff will give you style advice and make sure that you find the perfect fit. Once you’ve been fitted for everything from shirts, pants and sweaters to business suits and tuxes, the staff will place an order for you online and it’ll be delivered right to your door.

Jade and Clover — Walking around this shop gives you the feeling of being on someone’s living room, only that everything is on sale. Designer clothes, cactus-inspired lamps, puzzles and games, chairs, notebooks and plants, all these collections of craft products are available in their store in Deep Ellum. Most of the merchandise is handmade, eco-friendly and hip, and the prices are open to all budges. Jade and Clover is the place for the rare-to-find gift.

NorthPark Center — NorthPark Center is the second-largest mall in Texas featuring over 235 stores – including a Macy’s, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Ted Baker, Mulberry, Agent Provocateur and Texas’ first H&M – and restaurants including local brunch institution, Bread Winners. The shopping center located at the intersection of two of Dallas’ busiest highways (Central Expressway and Loop 12/Northwest Highway) attracts over over 27 million visitors a year.

Neiman Marcus flagship store — The Neiman Marcus Building on Main Street in downtown Dallas both the commercial headquarters and the flagship store of the famed Neiman Marcus chain. The building which is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark houses an elegant restaurant called The Zodiac as well as its wide variety of clothing, shoes and accessories including luxury and designer brands.

TRAVEL TIPS

Dallas can be tricky for most tourists. While it has become increasingly cool and hip, still most tourists visit Dallas for events, conferences and meetings. Discovering the underground side to the city, and the new and alternative hotspots is never easy, but with the help of some locals, it’s easy to discover Dallas.

Efrogs is an independently owned and operated eco-friendly, tip-based shuttle service operating throughout Dallas as a transportation alternative. The service offers FREE rides for office workers, hotel guests, restaurant and bar patrons, as well as visitors at parties and sporting events. The funky shuttle buses are a great (and safe) way to explore Dallas at night. You can even book a brewery tour direct with them to visit multiple craft breweries for as little as $80 per person. Their city tour is just $22 and includes free pizza and several secret photo hotspots in the city.

For those looking to get a photo of the new Dallas skyline (featuring the iconic Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava), park at the south end of the bridge at Trinity Groves. Parking is free and you can walk up to the nearby park alongside the riverbed to get a panoramic photo of Dallas.

For a different view of the Reunion Tower, take the elevators up to the top floor in the Hilton Regency hotel next door — it’s a great skyline view of the tower. And it’s free!

The Deep Ellum district, just outside of the city center, is famous for its live music venues and nightlife, but plan to visit during the day, too. You’ll discover hundreds of street art murals, graffiti paintings and iconic art on the streets. Bring a camera and prepare your Instagram.

For history fans, there’s a section of the Berlin Wall that’s inside the Hilton Anatole resort. It’s in the lobby of the hotel, so it’s easy to access—you’ll find it off the cocktail bar and spacious lobby by the conference rooms.

If street art is your thing, besides the murals you’ll find in Deep Ellum, make sure to wander around the Bishop Arts district. You’ll find several iconic Dallas murals. You’ll find the Dallas Strong mural that was painted in 2017, as well as other Instagram-worthy murals. Many are on the main streets, but if you wander a few blocks further into the residential area(s), you’ll stumble across additional murals.

There’s a giant eyeball in Dallas — like I said, everything in Dallas, is BIG. The Giant Eyeball (that’s its official title) is a sculpture by Chicago-based multimedia artist Tony Tasset. It’s located in Downtown Dallas just across from the Joule Hotel.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

When you think of festivals in Texas, Austin’s SXSW probably springs to mind, but Dallas can give Texas’ hipster capital a run for its money when it comes to events which celebrate alternative music, art and culture. Throughout the year a slew of festivals and events take place in the heart of Dallas. In between Dallas Pride and holiday celebrations like the Oak Lawn Halloween Block Party, you’ll find it hard to choose between festivals which either focus on or combine eclectic music, cutting-edge art, creative innovation, outstanding food and award-winning beers.

Every year more and more thoughtfully curated events crop up with the aim of showcasing local talent, cultivating creativity, engaging the community and most of all providing a mind-blowingly memorable experience. Check out the event listings at DowntownDallas.com to see what’s on when you’re in town. Here are a few of my favorites:

Dallas Pride — In 1969, The Stonewall Inn (a gay bar in New York’s Village) was the site of the Stonewall riots which prompted the gay rights movement. Three years after the riots a group of between 250 and 300 men and women marched through downtown Dallas, waving signs and chanting gay rights slogans; by the end the crowd was 3,000 strong. This was the city’s first gay Pride parade and today Dallas Pride is one of the biggest Pride events in the state. Throughout the month of September, gay pride events occur across the city, culminating in the Pride March which will be held on Saturday 16th September this year.

Oak Lawn Halloween — The Oak Lawn Halloween Block Party is a massive annual outdoor party and arguably the best Halloween bash in Dallas. Get ready to strut your stuff down the costume catwalk, and dance the night away to live music. There are also DJs, drag performers, and a selection of food, beer and other refreshments are available at a number of booths. Arrive early if you want to park your car.

Homegrown Festival — Homegrown Festival was Dallas’ first music and arts outdoor festival to showcase only local talent. It has expanded to include great bands with ties to Texas and this year twelve acts from different genres and styles of music performed on two stages. The festival takes place each year in May in the lawns of Main Street Garden Park in downtown Dallas. You’ll also find local vendors selling art, wares, food and beverages plus there’s a dog park and kids under the age of ten get in for free!

Index Fest — Formerly Untapped Festival, Index Fest offers some of the best beer, music, food and art from the state of Texas and beyond. The rebranded festival series will stay true to Untapped Festival’s original mission of celebrating stellar music and craft beer but add top-quality food and art into the mix. Tens of thousands of festival-goers attend the event series which also takes place in Austin, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio throughout the summer.

Deep Ellum Arts Festival — Each April, six blocks of Main Street in the Deep Ellum entertainment district play host to an enormous street festival, the Deep Ellum Arts Festival. Festival attendees can enjoy an eclectic selection of alternative music being played on six stages, as well as admire decorative arts displays by visual artists, sculptors, muralists, jewelers, and leather and wood crafters. You can pick up your own artwork or commission an original piece. There will also be a mouthwatering selection of Mexican, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asian food and drinks on offer.

LOCAL BLOGS & RESOURCES

Dallas can be tricky for most tourists. While it has become increasingly cool and hip, still most tourists visit Dallas for events, conferences and meetings. Discovering the underground side to the city, and the new and alternative hotspots is never easy, but with the help of some locals, it’s easy to discover Dallas.

DowntownDallas.com — The business association for downtown Dallas businesses, the website features a useful event calendar for all the events, festivals and activities happening each month. The website also features free neighborhood guides with food and drink recommendations.

Dallas Observer— The weekly print magazine is available throughout the city for free at small newsstands or in most museums, galleries and alternative bars and cafés. With a print run of over 40,000 and available each Thursday evening, it’s the go-to source for news and events in Dallas. In the magazine, and on their website, you’ll find local and regional news and entertainment stories, plus helpful guides and reviews for local Dallas things to do.

Dallas Voice — The print LGBT magazine for the city, the Dallas Voice is the go-to resource for anything LGBT-related. With news, lifestyle and entertainment articles, the print magazine comes out once a week and the website is full of extra resources and guides (including special features for Dallas Pride and other local LGBT events).

Guidelive.com — Owned by the local newspaper, The Dallas Morning News, Guidelive.com is a useful entertainment resource for the city with featured listings on movies, music, restaurants, bars, events and culture in Dallas and the surrounding North Texas area.

VisitDallas.com — It’s the official city tourism portal with useful guides on things to do, as well as an extensive overview of Dallas hotels and other city recommendations. A comprehensive Visitor’s Guide is available for free with over 60 pages of attraction and venue listings for the city.

D Magazine — A monthly print lifestyle magazine, their website, dmagazine.com, is also a useful resource for travelers. In-depth features and high-quality editorial sets the magazine apart from other local publications. While their print edition is only monthly, their website is packed with regular blogs and articles on new restaurant openings, trends and other local news.

Central Track — The website and digital magazine features a mix of the many types of Dallas publications out there. You’ll find sassy and subversive news and features across the website with a special emphasis on fashion, nightlife, music, cultural activities and food/drink.

Food Bitch — Born out of a popular local foodie Instagram account, the Food Bitch has a fun and lively take on the Dallas dining scene. You’ll find honest, fully-disclosed reviews and a mix of both food and drink features.

Eat Style Dallas — A men’s lifestyle and fashion blog, the EatStyleDallas site has reviews and features on everything from Dallas nightlife (including special events) to dining, fashion and style tips.

HeSaidMagazine.com — The digital magazine features dining and theater/arts reviews, previews of upcoming community events, new store openings, media personality interviews and other lifestyle news.

iliveinDallas.com — A blog that’s been around for a while, the website showcases just about everything that happens in Dallas with sections on everything from art & festivals to tech & theater. Check out their listings of free events in Dallas if you’re on a budget.

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Who is Adam?

I’ve worked as a bookseller, graphic designer, publisher, marketer, and writer—but it was a 15-month trip around the world which brought it all together into this blog. I’ve lived in Berlin, Tel Aviv, London, Sydney, Boston, and Dallas. Since early 2018, I live in New York City at the center of the world.

On this travel blog, you’ll find my gay stories, nightlife tips, photos, and all-too-personal essays from my adventures around the world. Read how Iceland changed my life and set me on a path as a professional travel blogger.